An update on the 2020 job market

COVID-19 has had some huge effects on the job market with businesses taking a severe hit due to lockdown and restrictions.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the unemployment rate in Australia is at 7.4 per cent (as of June 2020). This is the highest rate since 1998.

There are a lot of people are in the job market right now and as a result, things are more competitive.

As reported by Triple J’s Hack basic entry-level jobs are seeing applications in the thousands, with a dishwashing job recently receiving over 6000 genuine applications.

Trading Economics forecast unemployment rates to remain relatively the same for the next 6 months so it’s important job seekers stand out from the crowd.

Although this is challenging, don’t be completely deterred, here are some steps you can take to help you stand out – even if you don’t have much experience or about to graduate from School or University.

• Research roles in need currently, think about what industries might need further support due to the surge in people working from home, etc
• Tailor each application for every role you apply for
• Try to only focus on applying for roles you are genuinely excited about – this genuine excitement will show throughout your application and interview
• Refine your communication and presentation skills
• Show confidence and a positive attitude throughout the application process
• Use real-life examples in your answers – the STAR method is great for this
• Speak to your value add and what you can contribute to the business
• Be an active listener – listen thoroughly to the questions and don’t interrupt the interviewers
• Prepare questions in advance to ask the interviewer/hiring manager
• Don’t forget to include your key achievements in your application:
• Quantifiable results think sales, retention, turnaround, etc
• Project milestone or projects have you accomplished recently that have significantly impacted the business in a positive way
• Your biggest professional achievement in your career or the past year
• The best feedback you have received from a customer
• Refine your personal brand:
• Present your personal brand on your resume, online on LinkedIn and in person. Showcasing your personal brand let’s hiring managers know what you stand for, and what value you can add to get a head start in landing your next job

Get in touch with The Resume Assistant for more job-seeker insights, career advice and tips on how to get in front of hiring managers.